More than 60 riders complete benefit cycle for Manchester terror victims

On Sunday, July 9 more than 60 cyclists rode a 36 mile circuit to raise money for the 23 children in the area who were affected by the Manchester terror attacks.

Registered cyclists were signed in at 9.30am and they left in small groups from 10am onwards. Participants stopped at Cranage Village Hall in Knutsford at the halfway point for a break.

Gail Armstrong, event organiser, said: “It was a lovely event and I’ve haven’t had a single negative review from one person.

“Everyone made it back in one piece and we had no issues throughout the day so overall it was successful.

“Everybody is elated with the result and the amount of money raised. We’ve not finished counting yet but we’re sure we’ve broken our £5,000 target and that amount is only going to rise.

“It’s been amazing to see the community come out in support of this.

“I first organised it for a few people to turn up and we’d do a bit of sponsorship. We have more than 60 riders and now people are asking whether to meet up, socialise and whether I’d do it again.

“All I can say to that is watch this space.”

Following the cycle, riders returned to Middlewich Town Football Club for the handing out of certificates as well as holding a raffle where there were more than 20 prizes.

The proceeds will be split between children from Middlewich High School, Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School and Sandbach Girls School.

Cllr David Williams, who took part in the cycle, said: “It was a fantastic turnout and really impressive to see how quickly it was organised.

“It was also great to see the community coming together and show the kids in the schools that we are thinking of them.

“We all understand that they have suffered recently and hopefully they can find some enjoyment through the money that’s been raised.”

Gail was assisted by her charity committee Ally Diggle, Trevor Bowker, Candy Lean and Mark and Sandra Morris who offered their support following a Facebook appeal.